U.S. patent application number 12/486677 was filed with the patent office on 2009-12-24 for image processing apparatus, method for controlling the same, and storage medium.
This patent application is currently assigned to CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA. Invention is credited to Ritsuko Otake.
Application Number | 20090315674 12/486677 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41430629 |
Filed Date | 2009-12-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090315674 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Otake; Ritsuko |
December 24, 2009 |
IMAGE PROCESSING APPARATUS, METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THE SAME, AND
STORAGE MEDIUM
Abstract
A method for controlling an image processing apparatus
configured to output image data includes accepting, from a user,
selection about whether to permit inputting biometric information,
and performing control such that outputting the image data is
permitted in a case where the selection for permitting inputting
the biometric information is made, and the outputting the image
data is prohibited in a case where the selection for permitting
inputting the biometric information is not made.
Inventors: |
Otake; Ritsuko;
(Kawasaki-shi, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
CANON U.S.A. INC. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY DIVISION
15975 ALTON PARKWAY
IRVINE
CA
92618-3731
US
|
Assignee: |
CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
Tokyo
JP
|
Family ID: |
41430629 |
Appl. No.: |
12/486677 |
Filed: |
June 17, 2009 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
340/5.82 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 21/6209 20130101;
G06F 21/608 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
340/5.82 |
International
Class: |
G05B 19/00 20060101
G05B019/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jun 24, 2008 |
JP |
2008-164697 |
Claims
1. An image processing apparatus comprising: an outputting unit
configured to output image data; an inputting unit configured to
input user's biometric information; an accepting unit configured to
accept, from a user, selection about whether to permit inputting
the biometric information; and a control unit configured to perform
control such that outputting the image data from the outputting
unit is permitted in a case where the accepting unit accepts
selection for permitting the inputting unit to input the biometric
information, and the outputting the image data is prohibited in a
case where the accepting unit does not accept selection for
permitting the inputting unit to input the biometric
information.
2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
accepting unit accepts, from the user, selection about whether to
permit inputting the biometric information from the inputting unit
in a case where the image data includes predetermined
information.
3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
accepting unit is capable of accepting selection for inputting a
password instead of inputting the biometric information to the
inputting unit, and wherein the control unit permits outputting the
image data based on the password input from the user in a case
where the accepting unit accepts the selection for inputting the
password.
4. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further
comprising a storing control unit configured to store the biometric
information input by the inputting unit in a storing unit in
association with the image data output by the outputting unit.
5. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
biometric information includes face information, fingerprint
information, vein information, voice pattern information, hand
geometry information, retina information, or iris information of
the user, and wherein the inputting unit receives input by sensing
the biometric information using a biometric sensor.
6. A method for controlling an image processing apparatus
configured to output image data, the method comprising: accepting,
from a user, selection about whether to permit inputting biometric
information; and performing control such that outputting the image
data is permitted in a case where the selection for permitting
inputting the biometric information is made, and the outputting the
image data is prohibited in a case where the selection for
permitting inputting the biometric information is not made.
7. A computer-readable storage medium storing a computer-executable
program for controlling an image processing apparatus configured to
output image data, the computer-executable program comprising: a
code to accept, from a user, selection about whether to permit
inputting biometric information; and a code to perform control such
that outputting the image data is permitted in a case where the
selection for permitting inputting the biometric information is
made, and the outputting the image data is prohibited in a case
where the selection for permitting inputting the biometric
information is not made.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to an image processing
apparatus, a method for controlling the same, and a storage
medium.
[0003] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0004] A user can conveniently print out or transmit image data
using an image processing apparatus having a copy function or a
data transmission function. However, if image data having
confidential information is carelessly printed out or transmitted,
the confidential information may be unintentionally leaked. To
prevent the leakage of confidential information, an operation of
outputting (e.g., printing out or transmitting) image data can be
limitedly executed.
[0005] Meanwhile, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No.
2004-252501 discusses a technique of authenticating a user by
previously registering a user's face image and then comparing a
captured user's face image with the user's face image that has been
previously registered. In such an authentication technique, the
face of a user who wishes to output (e.g., print out or transmit)
image data is captured. If the captured face image matches any one
of previously registered face images, the operation of outputting
the image data may be permitted. Otherwise, the operation of
outputting the image data may be prohibited. This enables limiting
a user who can execute the operation of outputting image data and
restricting the operation of outputting image data.
[0006] However, when only users whose biometric information, such
as a face image, has previously been registered are permitted to
output image data as described above, a user whose biometric
information has not been registered cannot output the image data.
In this case, since a user who wishes to output image data is
required to previously register her/his biometric information, user
convenience may be decreased.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] According to an aspect of the present invention, an image
processing apparatus includes an outputting unit configured to
output image data, an inputting unit configured to input user's
biometric information, an accepting unit configured to accept, from
a user, selection about whether to permit inputting the biometric
information, and a control unit configured to perform control such
that outputting the image data from the outputting unit is
permitted in a case where the accepting unit accepts selection for
permitting the inputting unit to input the biometric information,
and the outputting the image data is prohibited in a case where the
accepting unit does not accept selection for permitting the
inputting unit to input the biometric information.
[0008] Further features and aspects of the present invention will
become apparent from the following detailed description of
exemplary embodiments with reference to the attached drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and
constitute a part of the specification, illustrate exemplary
embodiments, features, and aspects of the invention and, together
with the description, serve to explain the principles of the
invention.
[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating appearance of an
image processing apparatus according to a first exemplary
embodiment of the present invention.
[0011] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an internal
configuration of a multifunction peripheral (MFP) illustrated in
FIG. 1.
[0012] FIGS. 3A and 3B each illustrate an example of copy
restriction information added to an original.
[0013] FIG. 4 illustrates face image data captured by a camera unit
and information associated with the face image data.
[0014] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a process for controlling
a copy operation with a central processing unit (CPU) in the MFP
illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0015] FIGS. 6A to 6E illustrate examples of a selection screen and
a message screen displayed in the steps of the flowchart
illustrated in FIG. 5.
[0016] FIG. 7A illustrates a configuration for implementing copy
management for an original including copy restriction information
using a server.
[0017] FIG. 7B illustrates a configuration for implementing copy
management for an original including copy restriction information
using a computer by an administrator.
[0018] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a process for
transmitting copy management information from the MFP when a server
executes copy management for an original including copy restriction
information.
[0019] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a process for controlling
a copy operation in an image processing apparatus according to a
second exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
[0020] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a process for
controlling a copy operation in an image processing apparatus
according to the second exemplary embodiment of the present
invention.
[0021] FIGS. 11A to 11E illustrate examples of a selection screen
and a message screen displayed in the steps of the flowcharts
illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10.
[0022] FIGS. 12A to 12C illustrate examples of a selection screen
and a message screen displayed in the steps of the flowcharts
illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10.
[0023] FIG. 13 illustrates a memory map of a storage medium storing
various data processing programs that can be read by an image
processing apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0024] Various exemplary embodiments, features, and aspects of the
invention will be described in detail below with reference to the
drawings.
[0025] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating appearance of an
image processing apparatus according to a first exemplary
embodiment of the present invention. As an image processing
apparatus of the present exemplary embodiment, a digital
multifunction peripheral (hereinafter, referred to as an MFP) 100
having multiple functions can be used.
[0026] The MFP 100 includes a scanner unit 200, a printer unit 300,
an operation unit 400, and a camera unit 500, as illustrated in
FIG. 1.
[0027] The scanner unit 200 has a feeder 201, which feeds an
original to be read on a sheet-by-sheet basis. The original fed by
the feeder 201 is illuminated by a light source (not illustrated)
and scanned by a reading sensor such as a charge-coupled device
(CCD). The reading sensor converts a light beam reflected from the
original into an electric signal. Such an electric signal is an
analog signal representing an image of the original, which is then
converted into a digital signal by an image processing unit (not
illustrated). The digital signal is then output as image data.
[0028] The printer unit 300 prints out the image expressed by the
input image data on the paper fed from a single paper feed stage
301 and discharges the paper having the image printed thereon to a
discharge tray 302. While the printer unit 300 is described as an
electrophotographic type or an inkjet type, various other printing
types may be also adopted without limitation.
[0029] The operation unit 400 includes a hard key group 402 having
a start key or the like and a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel
401 having a touch panel capable of displaying a group of soft
keys. If a user operates any one of a group of hard keys 402 or a
group of the soft keys displayed on the liquid crystal display
panel 401, information corresponding to the operation (e.g.,
information on an operation setup) is input. The liquid crystal
display panel 401 displays various kinds of setup screens such as
an operation mode setup screen and information on an operation mode
or an operation state set up by a user.
[0030] The camera unit 500 has an image sensor (not illustrated)
for capturing a user's face as information (i.e., biometric
information) for identifying a user who uses the MFP 100.
[0031] An internal configuration of the MFP 100 will now be
described with reference to FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a block diagram
illustrating an internal configuration of the MFP 100 illustrated
in FIG. 1.
[0032] The MFP 100 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 101 as
illustrated in FIG. 2. The CPU 101 is connected to a memory 102, a
hard disk drive (HDD) 103, a network interface (I/F) 104, and an
input/output (I/O) interface 105 via a system bus 106. Also, the
CPU 101 is connected to the scanner unit 200, the printer unit 300,
the operation unit 400, and the camera unit 500 via the system bus
106.
[0033] The memory 102 can be a random access memory (RAM) for
providing a work area for the CPU 101 as well as temporarily
storing image data. The HDD 103 stores programs or image data for
executing various functions of the MFP 100. The network I/F 104 is
an interface for transmitting/receiving data between devices over a
network such as a local area network (LAN). The I/O interface 105
is an interface such as a universal serial bus (USB) for
transmitting/receiving data between external devices.
[0034] The CPU 101, using a work area of the memory 102, performs
control to execute various functions (such as a copy function, a
printer function, a data transmission function, a facsimile
function) based on a program stored in the HDD 103. For example,
the CPU 101 performs control to read an original using the scanner
unit 200 and transmit image data to the printer unit 300, thereby
executing a copy operation for the original. The CPU 101 also
performs control to read an original using the scanner unit 200 and
transmit image data from the network I/F 104 or the I/O interface
105 to an external device, thereby executing data transmission. The
CPU 101 also performs control to read an original using the scanner
unit 200 and transmit image data from the network I/F 104 to
another facsimile device, thereby executing facsimile
transmission.
[0035] The copy operation in the MFP 100 according to the present
exemplary embodiment will now be described in brief with reference
to FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 4. FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate examples of copy
restriction information added to an original. FIG. 4 illustrates
image data of the face captured by the camera unit 500 and
information associated with the image data.
[0036] According to the present exemplary embodiment, when the copy
operation is executed, a user operates the hard or soft key of the
operation unit 400 and set a copy mode in the MFP 100. Then, the
user places an original on the feeder 201 of the scanner unit 200
and executes an output instruction by pressing the start key of the
operation unit 400.
[0037] When the start key is pressed, the CPU 101 performs control
to feed the original from the feeder 201 and read the original
using the scanner unit 200. The CPU 101 analyzes image data of the
original read by the scanner unit 200. Based on the result of the
analysis, the CPU 101 determines whether the image data includes
copy restriction information (i.e., specific information). The copy
restriction information indicates that copy is restricted for the
original.
[0038] The copy restriction information can include a visible or
invisible two-dimensional code that can be analyzed by the MFP 100
(i.e., CPU 101). The copy restriction information is not limited to
the two-dimensional code, but it can include any type of code as
long as it can be analyzed by the MFP 100. For example, as
illustrated in FIG. 3A, a visible two-dimensional code 601 can be
added to the vicinity of an edge of the original as the copy
restriction information. In addition, as illustrated in FIG. 3B, an
invisible two-dimensional code 602 including a dot pattern can be
embedded in the image as the copy restriction information. The
invisible information can be read in a resolution larger than a
predetermined level.
[0039] If the image read by the scanner unit 200 includes copy
restriction information, the CPU 101 performs control to display,
on the LCD panel 401, an inquiry screen for asking a user whether
to consent to face capturing (for obtaining biometric information)
using the camera unit 500. On the inquiry screen, if a user enters
an answer that he/she consents to the face capturing, the CPU 101
performs control to execute the user's face capturing using the
camera unit 500. If the face information of the user is obtained,
the CPU 101 performs control to permit the user to copy the
original and execute copying. That is, the CPU 101 performs control
to send the image data of the read original to the printer unit
300, and the printer unit 300 then discharges a sheet having the
image of the read original printed thereon.
[0040] As described above, if the original including the copy
restriction information is to be copied, the user's face capturing
becomes a precondition for the copy permission, and the camera unit
500 captures the user's face. The image data of the captured user's
face is associated with the image data of the original to be copied
(i.e., the image data of the original read by the scanner unit 200)
and date/time information as illustrated in FIG. 4, so that
management information 701 including the image data and the
data/time information can be generated. The management information
701 is stored in the HDD 103. The management information 701 stored
in the HDD 103 can be referred to, for example, when an
administrator's password is entered. This enables searching for
users who executed the copy operation for the original and the copy
date and time information when the copy operation is to be executed
for the original including the copy restriction information.
[0041] A process for controlling the copy operation by the CPU 101
in the MFP 100 will now be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and
6A to 6E. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a process for
controlling the copy operation by the CPU 101 in the MFP 100
illustrated in FIG. 1. FIGS. 6A to 6E illustrate examples of a
selection screen and a message screen displayed in procedures of
the flowchart illustrated in FIG. 5. The procedures illustrated in
the flowchart illustrated in FIG. 5 are executed by the CPU 101
based on a program stored in the HDD 103.
[0042] A user performs a copy setup for setting the number of
copies to be made or a post-processing condition such as sorting or
stapling by operating a hard or soft key of the operation unit 400
when the copy operation is to be executed. The user sets the
original in the scanner unit 200 and presses the start key on the
operation unit 400.
[0043] In step S101, the CPU 101 controls the scanner unit 200 to
read the original when the start key is pressed. The image data of
the original read by the scanner unit 200 is stored in the HDD 103.
Then, in step S102, the CPU 101 analyzes the image data of the read
original. In step S103, the CPU 101 determines whether the image
data includes copy restriction information based on the result of
the analysis.
[0044] If it is determined, in step S103, that the image data
includes copy restriction information (YES in step S103), then in
step S104, the CPU 101 performs control to display the inquiry
screen 410 as illustrated in FIG. 6A on the LCD panel 401. The
inquiry screen 410 is a screen for asking a user whether to consent
to face capturing. The inquiry screen 410 provides a message
indicating "COPY IS RESTRICTED FOR THIS ORIGINAL. FACE CAPTURING IS
REQUIRED TO PERMIT YOU TO COPY THIS ORIGINAL. DO YOU CONSENT TO
FACE CAPTURING?". In addition, the inquiry screen 410 provides
"YES" and "NO" keys for entering an answer to the inquiry about
whether to consent to the face capturing. The user presses the
"YES" key when she/he consents to the face capturing. Meanwhile,
the user presses the "NO" key when she/he does not consent to the
face capturing. When either of the "YES" or "NO" key is pressed,
the inquiry screen 410 is closed.
[0045] Subsequently, in step S105, the CPU 101 determines whether
the user consents to the face capturing in response to pressing
either of the "YES" or "NO" key on the inquiry screen 410. If the
"YES" key is pressed, it is determined that the user consents to
the face capturing. If the "NO" key is pressed, it is determined
that the user does not consent to the face capturing but cancels
the copy operation for the original.
[0046] If it is determined that the user consents to the face
capturing in step S105 (YES in step S105), then in step S106, the
CPU 101 controls the camera unit 500 to capture the user's face.
The user's face can be captured by the camera unit 500 such that
the face of the user who is operating the MFP 100 at the present
time can be captured from its front side. It is also necessary to
prompt a user to direct her/his face to the lens of the camera unit
500. For this purpose, for example, a message screen 411 indicating
"PLEASE STARE AT CAMERA LENS. YOUR FACE IS BEING CAPTURED." is
displayed on the LCD panel 401 as illustrated in FIG. 6B. Any face
recognition technique well-known in the art can be employed to
capture the user's face using the camera unit 500. When the face is
recognized, the face capturing using the camera unit 500 is
executed. If the face is not recognized within a predetermined time
period, the capturing is ended. If the capturing is ended, the
message screen 411 is closed.
[0047] In step S107, the CPU 101 determines whether the user's face
capturing is successful based on the image data obtained by the
face capturing. If it is determined that the user's face capturing
is successful (YES in step S107), then in step S108, the CPU 101
generates management information 701 including the image data of
the user's face captured by the camera unit 500 and stores the
management information 701 in the HDD 103. According to the present
exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the management
information 701 includes the image data of the captured face, the
image data of the original (i.e., image data of the original read
by the scanner unit 200), and date and time information in
association with one another.
[0048] In step S109, the CPU 101 performs control to execute the
copy operation for the read original. In this step, the image data
of the original read by the scanner unit 200 is transmitted to the
printer unit 300, and the printer unit 300 prints out the image
data on a sheet. In addition, for example, a message screen 412
indicating "COPYING IS IN PROGRESS" is displayed on the LCD panel
401 as illustrated in FIG. 6C. When the copy operation is
completed, the CPU 101 performs control to close the message screen
412 and ends the present process.
[0049] If it is determined that the user's face capturing is
unsuccessful in step S107 (NO in step S107), then in step S110, the
CPU 101 performs control to display, for example, the selection
screen 413 as illustrated in FIG. 6D on the LCD panel 401. The
selection screen 413 is a screen for allowing a user to select
whether to re-capture her/his face. The selection screen 413
provides a message "FACE CAPTURING IS UNSUCCESSFUL. PLEASE SELECT
WHETHER TO RE-CAPTURE YOUR FACE OR CANCEL COPYING". In addition,
the selection screen 413 provides "RE-CAPTURE" and "CANCEL" keys.
In this case, when the user selects the face re-capturing, the
"RE-CAPTURE" key is pressed. Meanwhile, when a user gives up and
cancels the copy operation for the original, the "CANCEL" key is
pressed. Either of the "RE-CAPTURE" or "CANCEL" key is pressed, the
selection screen 413 is closed.
[0050] In step S111, the CPU 101 determines whether the user
selects the face re-capturing in response to determining whether
the "RE-CAPTURE" key is pressed on the selection screen 413. In
this case, if it is determined that the user selects the face
re-capturing (YES in step S111), the CPU 101 controls the process
to return to step S106 and the cameral unit 500 to re-capture the
user's face.
[0051] If it is determined that the user does not select the face
re-capturing in step S111 (NO in step S111), the user might have
selected canceling the copy operation by pressing the "CANCEL" key.
In this case, in step S112, the CPU 101 executes a process for
canceling the copy operation for the read original. For example,
the image data captured by the camera unit 500 or the image data of
the read original stored in the HDD 103 is deleted. For example, a
message screen 414 indicating "COPYING HAS BEEN CANCELED" is
displayed on the LCD panel 401 as illustrated in FIG. 6E. Then, the
CPU 101 performs control to close the message screen 414 and ends
the present process.
[0052] If it is determined that the user does not consent to the
face capturing in step S105 (NO in step S105), the CPU 101
determines that the user cancels the copy operation for the read
original. Then, the process advances to step S112, in which the CPU
101 performs control to execute a process for canceling the copy
operation for the read original.
[0053] If it is determined that the image does not include copy
restriction information in step S103 (NO in step S103), the process
advances to step S109, in which the CPU 101 performs control to
execute the copy operation.
[0054] As described above, when an original including copy
restriction information is copied, the CPU 101 permits the copy
operation for the original only when the face capturing is
successful. Information on the captured face is stored as
management information in association with the copied image data.
Based on the stored management information, a user who executes the
copy operation can be tracked. This prevents the user from
carelessly copying the original. Since the user is allowed to
output the image data even when the face information has not been
registered previously, degradation of user convenience can be
prevented.
[0055] Copy management for an original including copy restriction
information using the copy management information will now be
described with reference to FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 8. FIG. 7A
illustrates a configuration for implementing copy management for an
original including copy restriction information using a server.
FIG. 7B illustrates a configuration for implementing copy
management for an original including copy restriction information
using a computer by an administrator. FIG. 8 is a flowchart
illustrating a procedure for transmitting the copy management
information from the MFP 100 when the server executes copy
management for the original including copy restriction information.
The procedures illustrated in the flowchart illustrated in FIG. 8
are executed by the CPU 101 based on a program stored in the HDD
103.
[0056] As described above, the HDD 103 in the MFP 100 stores copy
management information including the image data of the user's face
who executes the copy operation for the original including copy
restriction information, the image data of the original, and
date/time information. By referring to the copy management
information stored in the HDD 103, the original that was copied can
be identified, and when the original was copied by whom can also be
identified.
[0057] As a method for referring to the copy management information
stored in the HDD 103, for example, an administrator who manages
the copy operation for the original including copy restriction
information can access the HDD 103 using a password and can print
out the copy management information in a management report
style.
[0058] However, in an environment having a plurality of MFPs, it
may take a long time to output the copy management information from
each MFP. Therefore, a management device for executing the copy
management can be provided independently from the MFPs 100 such
that copy management for the original including the copy
restriction information can be centrally executed using the copy
management information. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 7A, a
system can be constructed by connecting the MFP 100 to a sever 160
having an HDD 161 via a network 150 and executing copy management
for the original including the copy restriction information using
the server 160.
[0059] In this system, as illustrated in FIG. 8, the CPU 101 of the
MFP 100 waits for end of the copy operation for the original
including the copy restriction information in step S201. When the
copy operation for the original is ended (YES in step S201), then
in step S202, the CPU 101 performs control to transmit the
management information stored in the HDD 103 from the network I/F
104 to the server 160 via the network 150. In this case, the
address of the server 160 (i.e., destination information) is
previously stored in the HDD 103. Alternatively, the address can be
embedded into the image of the original together with the copy
restriction information. The address (destination information)
embedded into the image of the original is extracted by analyzing
the image.
[0060] Subsequently, in step S203, the CPU 101 performs control to
delete the management information in the HDD 103 and ends the
present process.
[0061] When the server 160 receives the management information, the
server 160 stores the management information in the HDD 161. The
management information stored in the HDD 161 can be read and
referred to by an administrator or any appropriate person
responsible for management of the copy operation for the original
including the copy restriction information. This enables
identifying the copied original and identifying when the original
was copied by whom with respect to the copy operation for the
original including copy restriction information.
[0062] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 7B, instead of the
server 160, a personal computer (PC) 170 used by an administrator
can be utilized as a management device for managing the copy
operation for the original including the copy restriction
information. In this case, the MFP 100 is connected to the PC 170
via a network 150. When the copy operation is ended, the MFP 100
transmits an electronic mail from the network I/F 104 to the
network 150 with the management information stored in the HDD 103
being attached. A destination of the electronic mail is the address
(i.e., destination information) allocated to an administrator, and
the address is previously stored in the HDD 103 of the MFP 100. The
address of the administrator can be embedded into the image of the
original together with the copy restriction information. The
address (i.e., destination information) embedded into the image of
the original is extracted by analyzing the image.
[0063] The administrator who receives the electronic mail can
identify the copied original as well as identify when the original
was copied by whom by referring to the copy management information
attached to the electronic mail.
[0064] While, according to the present exemplary embodiment, the
copy management information is transmitted to the server, or an
electronic mail with the copy management information being attached
is transmitted to the administrator after the copy operation for
the original including the copy restriction information is ended,
the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, in step
S108 illustrated in FIG. 5, in the process executed before the copy
operation is ended, the copy management information can be
transmitted to the server, or an electronic mail with the copy
management information being attached can be transmitted to the
administrator.
[0065] In addition, in the MFP 100, the CPU 101 can search the HDD
103 on a regular basis. If the copy management information is
stored in the HDD 103, the copy management information can be
transmitted to the server, or an electronic mail with the copy
management information being attached can be transmitted.
[0066] A second exemplary embodiment of the present invention will
now be described with reference to FIGS. 9 to 12A to 12C. FIGS. 9
and 10 are flowcharts illustrating a process for controlling a copy
operation in an image processing apparatus according to the second
exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 11A to 11E and
12A to 12C illustrate examples of a selection screen and a message
screen displayed in the steps of the flowcharts illustrated in
FIGS. 9 and 10. Herein, the procedures illustrated in the
flowcharts illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10 are executed by the CPU
101 based on a program stored in the HDD 103.
[0067] The second exemplary embodiment differs from the first
exemplary embodiment in that a user is allowed to select any one of
the password entering or the face capturing to permit the copy
operation for the original including copy restriction information.
In the following description, differences between the first and
second exemplary embodiments will be described. However, since a
general configuration of the second exemplary embodiment is similar
to that of the first exemplary embodiment, its description will not
be repeated.
[0068] In step S301, when a user sets the original in the scanner
unit 200 and presses the start key of the operation unit 400, the
CPU 101 controls the scanner unit 200 to execute a reading
operation for the original as illustrated in FIG. 9. The image data
of the original read by the scanner unit 200 is stored in the HDD
103. Then, in step S302, the CPU 101 analyzes the image data of the
read original and, in step S303, determines whether the image data
includes copy restriction information based on the analysis
result.
[0069] If it is determined that the image includes the copy
restriction information in step S303 (YES in step S303), then in
step S304, the CPU 101 performs control to display the selection
screen 420 as illustrated in FIG. 11A on the LCD panel 401. The
selection screen 420 is a screen for allowing a user to select a
process for obtaining copy permission for the original. The
selection screen 420 provides a message indicating "COPY IS
RESTRICTED FOR THIS ORIGINAL". In addition, the selection screen
420 provides processing items representing each process, such as
"ENTER PASSWORD TO OBTAIN COPY PERMISSION", "CAPTURE FACE TO OBTAIN
COPY PERMISSION", and "CANCEL COPYING", and an "OK" key. Each of
the processing items has a check box. The user selects a process
for obtaining copy permission for the original by marking the check
box of the corresponding processing item. Then, the user presses
the "OK" key to confirm the selected process. When the "OK" key is
pressed, the selection screen 420 is closed.
[0070] If the "OK" button is pressed on the selection screen 420,
then in step S305, the CPU 101 determines whether the process
selected by the user is "ENTER PASSWORD TO OBTAIN COPY PERMISSION".
If it is determined that the selected process is "ENTER PASSWORD TO
OBTAIN COPY PERMISSION" (YES in step S305), then in step S306, the
CPU 101 performs control to execute the selected process. For
example, the CPU 101 performs control to display a password input
screen 421 as illustrated in FIG. 11B on the LCD panel 401. The
password input screen 421 provides a password input box and an "OK"
key. The user enters a password into the input box and presses the
"OK" key to confirm the entered password. If the "OK" key is
pressed, the password input screen 421 is closed.
[0071] If the "OK" key is pressed, then in step S307, the CPU 101
determines whether the password entered through the password input
screen 421 is identical to the password previously stored in the
memory such as the HDD 103. If it is determined that both of the
passwords are identical to each other (YES in step S307), then in
step S308, the CPU 101 permits the copy operation for the read
original and performs control to execute the copy operation for the
original. At the present moment, for example, a message screen 422
indicating "COPYING IS IN PROGRESS" as illustrated in FIG. 11C is
displayed on the LCD panel 401. If the copy operation is completed,
the CPU 101 performs control to close the message screen 422 and
ends the present process.
[0072] If it is determined that the entered password is not
identical to the previously stored password in step S307 (NO in
step S307), then in step S309, the CPU 101 performs control to
display, for example, the selection screen 423 as illustrated in
FIG. 11D on the LCD panel 401. The selection screen 423 is a screen
for allowing a user to select a process when the password is not
correct. The selection screen 423 provides a message indicating
"YOU HAVE WRONG PASSWORD. PLEASE SELECT PROCESS". In addition, the
selection screen 423 provides processing items representing each
process, such as "RE-ENTER PASSWORD", "RETURN", and "CANCEL
COPYING", and an "OK" key. Each of the processing items has a check
box. The user selects a process to be executed when a wrong
password is entered by marking the check box of the corresponding
processing item. Then, the user presses the "OK" key to confirm the
selected process. If the "OK" key is pressed, the selection screen
423 is closed.
[0073] If the "OK" key is pressed, then in step S310, the CPU 101
determines whether the process selected by the user through the
selection screen 423 is "RETURN". If it is determined that the
selected process is "RETURN" (YES in step S310), the process
returns to step S304, in which the CPU 101 performs control to
display the selection screen 420.
[0074] If it is determined that the process selected in step S310
is not "RETURN" (NO in step S310), then in step S311, the CPU 101
determines whether the selected process is "RE-ENTER PASSWORD". As
a result, if it is determined that the selected process is
"RE-ENTER PASSWORD" (YES in step S311), the process returns to step
S306, in which the CPU 101 performs control to display the password
input screen 421.
[0075] If it is determined that the selected process is not
"RE-ENTER PASSWORD" in step S311 (NO in step S311), the selected
process is "CANCEL COPYING". In this case, in step S312, the CPU
101 executes a process for canceling the copy operation for the
read original. For example, the CPU 101 deletes the image data of
the read original in the HDD 103. In addition, the CPU 101 performs
control to display a message screen 424 indicating "COPYING HAS
BEEN CANCELED" as illustrated in FIG. 11E on the LCD panel 401.
Then, the CPI 101 performs control to close the message screen 424
and ends the present process.
[0076] If it is determined that the selected process is not "ENTER
PASSWORD TO OBTAIN COPY PERMISSION" in step S305 (NO in step S305),
the CPU 101 controls the process to advance to step S313
illustrated in FIG. 10. Then, the CPU 101 determines whether the
selected process is "CAPTURE FACE TO OBTAIN COPY PERMISSION". If it
is determined that the selected process is "CAPTURE FACE TO OBTAIN
COPY PERMISSION" (YES in step S313), then in step S314, the CPU 101
performs control to display, for example, an inquiry screen 425 as
illustrated in FIG. 12A on the LCD panel 401. The inquiry screen
425 is a screen for asking a user whether to consent to the face
capturing and also the same screen as the inquiry screen 410 of the
first exemplary embodiment.
[0077] In step S315, the CPU 101 determines whether the user
consents to the face capturing in response to pressing either of
the "YES" or "NO" key on the inquiry screen 425. If the "YES" key
is pressed, it is determined that the user consents to the face
capturing. If the "NO" key is pressed, it is determined that the
user does not consent to the face capturing and cancels the copy
operation of the original.
[0078] If it is determined that the user consents to the face
capturing in step S315 (YES in step S315), then in step S316, the
CPU 101 controls the cameral unit 500 to capture the user's face.
Also, to prompt the user to direct her/his face to the lens of the
camera unit 500, for example, a message screen 426 indicating
"PLEASE STARE AT CAMERAL LENS. YOUR FACE IS BEING CAPTURED." as
illustrated in FIG. 12B is displayed on the LCD panel 401. If the
face capturing is ended, the message screen 426 is closed.
[0079] Then, in step S317, the CPU 101 determines whether the
user's face capturing is successful based on the image data
obtained through the face capturing. If it is determined that the
user's face capturing is successful (YES in step S317), then in
step S318, the CPU 101 performs control to generate copy management
information including the image data of the user's face captured by
the camera unit 500 and executes a process for storing the copy
management information in the HDD 103. Then, the process advances
to step S308 illustrated in FIG. 9, in which the CPU 101 performs
control to copy the read original.
[0080] If it is determined that the user's face capturing is
unsuccessful in step S317 (NO in step S317), then in step S319, the
CPU 101 performs control to display, for example, a selection
screen 427 as illustrated in FIG. 12C on the LCD panel 401. The
selection screen 427 is a screen for allowing a user to select a
process to be executed when the face capturing is unsuccessful. The
selection screen 427 provides a message indicating "FACE CAPTURING
IS UNSUCCESSFUL. PLEASE SELECT PROCESS". In addition, the selection
screen 427 provides processing items representing each process,
such as "RE-CAPTURE", "RETURN", and "CANCEL COPYING", and an "OK"
key. Each of the processing items has a check box. The user selects
a process to be executed when the face capturing is unsuccessful by
marking the check box of the processing item. Then, the user
presses the "OK" key to confirm the selected process. If the "OK"
key is pressed, the selection screen 427 is closed.
[0081] If the "OK" key is pressed on the selection screen 427, then
in step S320, the CPU 101 determines whether the process selected
by the user on the selection screen 427 is "RE-CAPTURE". If it is
determined that the selected process is "RE-CAPTURE" (YES in step
S320), the process returns to step S316, in which the CPU 101
performs control to execute the face capturing using the camera
unit 500.
[0082] If it is determined that the selected process is not
"RE-CAPTURE" in step S320 (NO in step S320), then in step S321, the
CPU 101 determines whether the selected process is "RETURN". If it
is determined that the selected process is "RETURN" (YES in step
S321), the process advances to step S304 illustrated in FIG. 9, in
which the CPU 101 performs control to display the inquiry screen
420.
[0083] If it is determined that the selected process is not
"RETURN" in step S321 (NO in step S321), the selected process is
"CANCEL COPYING". In this case, the process advances to step S312
illustrated in FIG. 9, in which the CPU 101 performs control to
execute a process for canceling the copy operation for the read
original. For example, the image data of the read original stored
in the HDD 103 is deleted. In addition, if there is the image data
captured by the camera unit 500, the image data is also
deleted.
[0084] If it is determined that the user does not consent to the
face capturing in step S315 (NO in step S315), the CPU 101
determines that the copy operation for the read original is
canceled. Then, the process advances to step S312 illustrated in
FIG. 9, in which the CPU 101 performs control to cancel the copy
operation for the read original.
[0085] If it is determined that the image data does not include the
copy restriction information in step S303 (NO in step S303), the
process advances to step S308, in which the CPU 101 performs
control to copy the read original.
[0086] As described above, according to the present exemplary
embodiment, a user whose password has been previously registered
can select an option for authenticating a user who enters the
password instead of the face capturing. As a result, a user can
copy the restricted original by allowing the MFP 100 to
authenticate a user using a password instead of face capturing.
[0087] A password can be registered for each user, or a common
password can be registered for a plurality of users. If a password
is registered for each user, the MFP 100 can identify the user who
has entered the password when it is determined that the entered
password is correct in step S307. As a result, when the image data
is output after that, the MFP 100 stores the image data in the HDD
103 in association with a user's identification (ID) and date/time
as the management information. As a result, the administrator can
track when and what image data has been output by whom by referring
to the HDD 103. Also, the management information stored in the HDD
103 can be transmitted to the server 160 or the PC 170 as described
above. While the password method is employed as an example in the
above description, any method other than the password method can be
employed as long as it can be used to authenticate a user in
combination with previously registered information.
[0088] Further, according to the aforementioned exemplary
embodiment, the CPU 101 asks a user to capture her/his face (or to
enter a password or capture her/his face according to the second
exemplary embodiment) when the image data of the original includes
copy restriction information. However, the present invention is not
limited thereto. The CPU 101 can ask a user to capture her/his face
(or to enter a password or capture her/his face according to the
second exemplary embodiment) irrespective of whether the original
includes copy restriction information when the copy operation is
instructed. As a result, the original can be prevented from being
carelessly copied even when the original does not include the copy
restriction information.
[0089] While the exemplary embodiments have been described by
exemplifying a case that the original including the copy
restriction information is copied using the scanner unit 200, the
present invention is not limited thereto. For example, even when
the original including the restriction information is read, and the
image data is transmitted to other devices, it is possible to
perform control to ask a user to capture her/his face (or to enter
a password or capture her/his face according to the second
exemplary embodiment) to permit the image data processing. In
addition, while the scanner unit 200 is used as an input source of
the image data to copy the original according to the present
exemplary embodiment, the present invention is not limited thereto.
Alternatively, the present invention can be applied to a case where
the MFP 100 prints out the image data read from an external memory
such as a universal serial bus (USB) memory.
[0090] While the user's face is captured to obtain biometric
information according to the present exemplary embodiment, the
present invention is not limited thereto. Alternatively, a
fingerprint, a vein, a hand geometry, a voice pattern, a retina, an
iris, or a combination of them can be obtained from a user as the
biometric information. Such biometric information can be obtained
using corresponding biometric sensors. The MFP 100 stores face
information, fingerprint information, vein information, voice
pattern information, hand geometry information, retina information,
iris information, or a combination of them obtained from a user in
association with the output image data or the output date/time. As
a result, it is possible to track when and what image data is
output by whom afterwards.
[0091] While biometric information is stored in association with
the output image data when the image data is output according to
the aforementioned exemplary embodiment, the present invention is
not limited thereto. Alternatively, the CPU 101 can perform memory
control to store the image data without associating the biometric
information obtained from a user with the image data.
[0092] It is to be understood that the present invention can also
be accomplished by supplying a system or an apparatus with a
storage medium in which a program code of software, which realize
the functions of either of the aforementioned exemplary embodiments
is stored, and causing a computer (or the CPU or micro processing
unit (MPU)) of the system or apparatus to read out and execute the
program code stored in the storage medium. For example, as
illustrated in FIG. 13, the storage medium in which the program
code is stored is supplied.
[0093] In this case, the program code itself read from the storage
medium realizes the functions of either of the exemplary
embodiments, and, therefore, the program code and the storage
medium in which the program code is stored constitute the present
invention.
[0094] Examples of the storage medium for supplying the program
code include a floppy disk, a hard disk, a magnetic-optical disk, a
compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM), a compact disc recordable
(CD-R), a compact disc rewritable (CD-RW), a digital versatile disc
read only memory (DVD-ROM), a digital versatile disc random access
memory (DVD-RAM), a digital versatile disc rewritable (DVD-RW), a
digital versatile disc rewritable (DVD+RW), a magnetic tape, a
nonvolatile memory card, and a ROM. Alternatively, the program code
can be downloaded via a network.
[0095] Further, it is to be understood that the functions of either
of the exemplary embodiments can be accomplished not only by
executing the program code read out by a computer, but also by
causing an operating system (OS) or the like which operates on the
computer to perform a part or all of the actual operations based on
instructions of the program code.
[0096] Further, it is to be understood that the functions of either
of the aforementioned exemplary embodiments can be accomplished by
writing program code read out from the storage medium into a memory
provided on a function expansion board inserted into a computer or
a memory provided in a function expansion unit connected to the
computer and then causing a CPU or the like provided in the
function expansion board or the function expansion unit to perform
a part or all of the actual operations based on instructions of the
program code.
[0097] While the present invention has been described with
reference to exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that the
invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments.
The scope of the following claims is to be accorded the broadest
interpretation so as to encompass all modifications, equivalent
structures, and functions.
[0098] This application claims priority from Japanese Patent
Application No. 2008-164697 filed Jun. 24, 2008, which is hereby
incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
* * * * *